1-Day Pingyao Ancient Town Sightseeing Walking Tour
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit highlights of Pingyao including City Wall of Pingyao, traditional Ming-Qing Street,Temple of City God and Ri Sheng Chang Exchange Shop with this private day tour from Pingyao by foot, walking only, no vehicie.
You will be picked up and dropped off at the Pingyao hotel(inside of the ancient city), but will have a option for pick up outside city as well.
Available options
Departure for city inside
Pick up from city inside hotel: The tour will be pick up and drop off the hotel inside of the Pingyao ancient city, no use the car, just walking tour.<br/>Pickup included
Departure for city outside
Pick up for outside city hotel: We will provide the vehicle seives for pick up and drop off your hotel (outside the Pingyao ancient city)<br/>Pickup included
What's included
The entrance tickets
Lunch
The private guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your guide will pick you up at the lobby of your hotel inside of Pingyao ancient city at 09:00 in the morning.
2
Your Pingyao ancient town tour will begin with a visit to the City Wall of Pingyao, which has been well preserved. As a whole, the rectangular wall resembles a tortoise, which was considered as a symbol of longevity traditionally. Ascending the wall, you could overlook the ancient city of Pingyao.
3
Then, get down from the wall and have a stroll on the traditional Ming-Qing Street. On both sides of this not very wide street, there are many buildings in ancient Chinese architecture style, which used to be firms, exchange shops and different kinds of shops like teashop, cloth shop and salt shop. Nowadays, some of them have been turned to hotels, restaurants or shops selling souvenirs while some have been preserved as attraction sites and museums.
4
Your next stop is the Temple of City God, one of the best-preserved Temples of City God in China. Its distinctive feature lies in the combination of the Temple of the God of Wealth and the Temple of the Kitchen God, which are separately situated to its right and left.
5
Stop 5
After lunch, you will proceed to Ri Sheng Chang Exchange Shop and Tong Xing Gong. Ri Sheng Chang Exchange Shop is the first money exchange shop in China as well as the founder of Chinese modern banks, which has played an important role in Chinese financial business for about one century. Tong Xing Gong was an establishment which provided private escort service for the exchange shops to guard their safety during transportation.
6
Stop 6
At the end, your guide will escort you to your hotel.
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
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Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Wheelchair accessible
About Pingyao
Pingyao is a beautifully preserved ancient walled city in northern China, renowned for its well-maintained Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese urban life.
Top Attractions
Pingyao Ancient City Wall
The ancient city wall is one of the best-preserved and most complete city walls in China. It dates back to the Ming Dynasty and encircles the entire ancient city.
Historical
1-2 hours
50 CNY
Ming and Qing Street
This bustling street is lined with traditional shops, restaurants, and teahouses, offering a glimpse into the daily life of ancient Pingyao.
Historical
1-2 hours
Varies by purchase
Shuanglin Temple
Shuanglin Temple is a Buddhist temple known for its impressive collection of colorful clay sculptures, dating back to the Tang and Ming dynasties.
Religious
1-2 hours
40 CNY
Zhenguo Temple and Pingyao Museum
This temple and museum complex showcases the history and culture of Pingyao, with exhibits on the city's ancient financial system and notable figures.
Historical
1-2 hours
30 CNY
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pingyao Knife-Cut Noodles
Hand-cut noodles served in a savory beef or lamb broth, topped with vegetables and sometimes eggs. The noodles are unique in shape and texture, made by slapping the dough on a wooden board.
Noodles
Contains gluten, can be made vegetarian
Pingyao Dumplings
Steamed or boiled dumplings filled with minced meat (usually pork or beef) and vegetables. The dough is made from a combination of wheat and buckwheat flour, giving the dumplings a unique texture.
Dumplings
Contains gluten, can be made vegetarian
Pingyao Flatbread (Pingyao Bing)
A type of flatbread made from wheat flour, water, and a pinch of salt. The dough is rolled out thin and cooked on a hot griddle, resulting in a crispy and delicious bread that can be enjoyed with various dips and spreads.
Bread
Contains gluten, can be made vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking around the ancient city wall
Biking through the countryside
Tea tasting at local teahouses
Strolling along Ming and Qing Street
Visiting historic temples and museums
Participating in traditional craft workshops
Enjoying hot pot and other warm dishes
Exploring the ancient city during the winter festivals
Best Time to Visit
April to October
This is the best time to visit Pingyao as the weather is pleasant and suitable for exploring the ancient city. The scenery is also at its best during these months.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Chinese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Pingyao is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it's essential to remain vigilant and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis and agree on a price before starting your journey
- • Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Taiyuan Wusu International Airport • 100 km from Pingyao
By train
Pingyao Railway Station
By bus
Pingyao Long-Distance Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Renting a bicycle is a popular and convenient way to explore Pingyao. Bikes are available for rent at various locations throughout the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Ancient City
Outer City
Day trips
Shuanglin Temple
2 km from Pingyao • Half day
Shuanglin Temple is a Buddhist temple known for its impressive collection of colorful clay sculptures, dating back to the Tang and Ming dynasties. The temple's historic halls and courtyards offer a glimpse into the rich religious and artistic heritage of the region.
Qiao Family Compound
30 km from Pingyao • Full day
The Qiao Family Compound is a stunning example of traditional Chinese architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This well-preserved complex features a maze of courtyards, halls, and pavilions, showcasing the wealth and power of the Qiao family during the Qing Dynasty.
Yingxian Wooden Pagoda
100 km from Pingyao • Full day
The Yingxian Wooden Pagoda is the oldest and tallest wooden pagoda in China, dating back to the Liao Dynasty. This impressive structure is a testament to the architectural prowess of ancient Chinese craftsmen and offers a unique glimpse into the region's rich history.
Festivals
Pingyao International Photography Festival • September
Pingyao Chinese New Year Celebrations • January/February (lunar calendar)
Pingyao Lantern Festival • February (lunar calendar)
Pro tips
- Visit Pingyao during the shoulder seasons (March and November) to avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather
- Explore the ancient city on foot or by bicycle to fully appreciate its charm and atmosphere
- Try local specialties, such as Pingyao knife-cut noodles and dumplings, at traditional restaurants and street stalls
- Attend the Pingyao International Photography Festival if your visit coincides with the event, as it offers a unique and vibrant atmosphere
- Consider hiring a local guide or joining a tour to gain a deeper understanding of Pingyao's history and culture
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
